Slipper arrangements; and methods

ABSTRACT

A footwear slipper arrangement is described. The slipper arrangement comprises a pillow top secured to an outsole member. The pillow top is a cushion member. The pillow top billows or projects upwardly.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

The present provisional application includes the disclosure of, withadditions thereto, U.S. Provisional Application 60/926,864 filed Apr.30, 2007 and U.S. Provisional Application 61/001,224, filed Oct. 30,2007. The complete disclosures of U.S. Application 60/926,864 and61/001,224 are incorporated herein, by reference.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The invention relates to slipper arrangements. In general, thearrangements provide for an attractive “pillow” arrangement, and acomfortable fit. Methods of assembly are also described.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

The footwear industry is an old and crowded art. The industry isinterested in the design of new products with aesthetic and comfortappeal while maintaining inexpensive construction.

In general, slippers are a type of footwear having a generally softconstruction. They are often washable in a conventional clothes washingmachine. Slippers are typically not manufactured using lasts, which areoften necessary devices when manufacturing a shoe that includes a hardsole and often a leather upper. Slippers are intended, primarily, forindoor use.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

Herein, slipper footwear arrangements are described. In general terms,the slipper footwear arrangements described include a cushioned pillowtop secured to a cushioned slipper base. A typical pillow top comprisesan upper pillow top cover and a lower pillow top cover, defining acushion receiving space therebetween. A cushion is provided in thecushion receiving space. In the resulting pillow top of a typicalexample, the upper pillow top cover projects (visibly at least in theheel) above a seam (between the upper pillow top cover and the lowerpillow top cover), a distance of at least 2 mm, typically at least 4 mm,and often more. Further, at least in the heel portion, typically thepillow top itself is viewable projecting upwardly up at least 8 mm,typically at least 10 mm, and often 12 mm or more, above any surroundingportion of the slipper.

In a typical arrangement, a portion of the lower pillow top coverprojects (visibly at least in the heel) downwardly from the peripheralseam. By “visibly” and variants thereof, in these, and related contexts,it is meant that the feature is viewable in the completed slipper, atleast in the heel portion, when the slipper is not worn.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a schematic side elevational view of an outside of a slipperarrangement in accord with the present disclosure.

FIG. 2 is a schematic side elevational view of an opposite side of theslipper arrangement of FIG. 1, the view of FIG. 2 being directed towardan inside or arch side of the slipper.

FIG. 3 is a schematic top view of the slipper arrangement depicted inFIGS. 1 and 2.

FIG. 4 is a schematic bottom perspective view of the slipper arrangementdepicted in FIGS. 1-3.

FIG. 5 is a schematic top perspective view of the slipper arrangementdepicted in FIGS. 1-4.

FIG. 6 is a schematic side elevational view of a first alternate slipperconfiguration to that depicted in FIGS. 1-5.

FIG. 7 is a schematic side elevational view of a second alternateconfiguration of a slipper arrangement according to the presentdisclosure.

FIG. 8 is a schematic top plan view of the slipper depicted in FIG. 7.

FIGS. 9-21 relate to steps in a method of assembling a slipper in accordwith FIG. 1-5, as follows:

FIG. 9 is a schematic depiction relating to a step stitching a vampcover and a vamp lining together.

FIG. 10 is a schematic depiction relating to a step of sewing of a mudguard or side guard loop.

FIG. 11 is a schematic depiction relating to a step of sewing portion ofa lower cover of a pillow top and an upper cover of a bottom outsolecover together.

FIG. 12 is a schematic depiction relating to a step of sewing the resultfrom FIG. 11, to an upper cover of a pillow top.

FIG. 13 is a schematic depiction of a result from FIG. 12, in aperspective view.

FIG. 14 is a schematic depiction relating to a step of sewing a pillowtop peripheral binding on the result of FIG. 12.

FIG. 15 is a schematic depiction relating to a step of attaching abinding to the result of FIG. 9.

FIG. 16 is a schematic depiction relating to a step of attaching theresult of FIG. 15 to the result of FIG. 14.

FIG. 17 is a schematic depiction relating to a step of securing theresult of FIG. 10 to the result of FIG. 16.

FIG. 18 is a schematic depiction relating to a step of inserting acushion pillow member into a pillow top cover from the result of FIG.17.

FIG. 19 is a schematic depiction relating to a step of stitching closedthe result of FIG. 18.

FIG. 20 is a schematic depiction relating to a step of securing theresult of FIG. 19 to a lower cover in an outsole cover.

FIG. 21 is a schematic depiction of a result of inverting the resultfrom FIG. 20.

FIGS. 22-28 schematically depict selected components usable in the stepsof FIGS. 9-21 to form the slipper arrangement of FIGS. 1-5 as follows:

FIG. 22 schematically depicts a vamp cover or outer piece.

FIG. 23 schematically depicts a vamp lining.

FIG. 24 schematically depicts a lower portion of a pillow top cover.

FIG. 25 schematically depicts an upper portion of an outsole cover.

FIG. 26 schematically depicts an upper portion of a pillow top.

FIG. 27 schematically depicts a pillow top foam insert.

FIG. 28 schematically depicts an outsole bottom.

FIG. 29 schematically depicts a bottom sole foam insert.

FIG. 30 is a schematic plan view of a vamp useable in forming theslipper arrangement of FIGS. 7 and 8.

FIG. 31 is a schematic side elevational view of a construction formed asan intermediate, in the process of forming the slipper arrangement ofFIGS. 7 and 8.

FIG. 32 is a schematic, bottom plan view of a second intermediate formedduring a process of constructing the slipper arrangement of FIGS. 7 and8.

FIG. 33 is a schematic, heel end top perspective, view of a thirdalternate embodiment of the slipper arrangement in accord with thepresent disclosure.

FIG. 34 is a schematic right side, outside, elevational view of theslipper of FIG. 33.

FIG. 35 is a schematic left side, inside, elevational view of theslipper of FIGS. 33 and 34.

FIG. 36 is a schematic top plan view of the slipper of FIGS. 33-35.

FIG. 37 is a schematic bottom plan view of the slipper of FIGS. 33-36.

FIG. 38 is a schematic toe end view of the slipper of FIGS. 33-37.

FIG. 39 is a schematic heel end elevational view of the slipper of FIGS.33-38.

FIG. 40 is a schematic perspective view of an upper and heel bandcomponent useful to make a slipper in accord with FIGS. 33-39.

FIG. 41 is a schematic view of a step of forming a slipper componentusable the slipper of FIGS. 33-39.

FIG. 42 is a schematic view of a pillow top component made during a stepof forming slipper in accord with FIGS. 33-39.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION I. Example Slipper Arrangement, FIGS. 1-5

The reference numeral 1, FIG. 1, generally indicates slipper arrangementaccording to the present disclosure. The view of FIG. 1 is a sideelevational view, generally directed toward an outside edge of theslipper; that is, a side of the slipper opposite a wearer's arch.

Referring to FIG. 1, slipper 1 generally comprises: a bottom or outsoleportion 2, an upper pillow top cushion portion 3, and, a cover 4. Thecover 4 extends over a portion of the wearer's foot, more specifically afront portion of the wearer's foot. For the particular example shown,the slipper 1 is an “open toed” slipper, and the cover 4 does not extendto the front or toe 7 of the slipper 1. Herein, cover 4 will sometimesbe characterized as a “vamp.”

The slipper 1 is characterized herein as having an “open” heel portion8, since no portion of the slipper heel 8 extends up over, or around, awearer's heel.

The principles described herein can be applied in alternativearrangements, for example closed toe slippers and slippers with athong-type cover, as discussed below in connection with FIGS. 6-8.

The example slipper 1 comprises two, isolated, cushioned members securedto one another. The two, isolated, cushioned members comprise the bottomoutsole portion 2; and, the upper pillow top cushion portion 3. Detailsconcerning this will be understood from further descriptions below. Bythe term “secured” in this context, it is meant that the pillow topportion 3 is not separable from the bottom outsole portion 2, during theuseful life of the slipper arrangement 1. Typically, the outsole portion2 and pillow top portion 3 comprise members stitched to one another.

By the term “isolated” when used in connection with the cushionarrangement of the bottom outsole portion 2 and the pillow top portion3, it is meant that foam or other cushioned inserts within sections 2and 3 are separated from one another, i.e., are in separate chambers.

As shown in FIG. 1, and in many slipper arrangements according to thepresent disclosure, a narrowed “waist” 5 is provided to the slipper,peripherally round in seam 6 with a pillow top 3 is secured to theoutsole 2. This narrow waist 5 is characteristic of many slipperarrangements according to the present disclosure.

In many slipper arrangements according to the present disclosure, thenarrowed “waist” 5 is viewable at least in a heel portion of thecompleted slipper, inside view, when not worn. That is, at least in someslipper arrangements according to the description, in the heel portionthe waist 5 is not covered up. The waist 5 generally extends inwardly,adjacent most outer peripheral portion of the slipper 1, at least 4 mm,and typically at least 7 mm, for example 7-15 mm.

By “visible” and “viewable” and variants thereof, when used herein inconnection with the feature of the slipper, it is meant that featureidentified is viewable, when the slipper is viewed from the side. Thatis, in at least in a portion of the slipper 1, for example the heelportion as identified, the feature identified is not covered up. Theseterms are meant to reference a view of the slipper when it is not worn.

In the example shown, the pillow top or upper pillow cushion portion 3comprises: an upper pillow top portion or cover 10; a lower pillow topbottom or cover portion 11 and a peripheral pillow top seam betweencover 10 and cover 11; in the example depicted the seam being covered bypillow top peripheral binding 12. Together, the upper pillow top portion10 and lower pillow top bottom portion 11 define a pillow top cover 3 xcontaining an internally positioned pillow top cushion member, discussedbelow.

A characteristic of many slipper arrangements according to the presentdisclosure, including, for example, slipper 1, is an upper cushionedpillow top 3 secured onto an outsole or slipper bottom 2. For theexample slipper 1 depicted, the upper, cushioned pillow top 3, when notworn but when viewed from a side, generally provides, at least in a heelportion of the slipper, when not worn for: viewing of pillow topperipheral binder 12 (or seam if not covered by the binder 12) extendingaround visible portions of the cushioned pillow top 3; viewing of waist5; and, viewing of pillow top cover 10 projecting above the binder 12(or seam if not covered by the binder 12). This provides a view ofpillow top 3 that is similar to that of a side view of a throw pillow orsimilar cushion.

For a typical example, in a slipper “rest” state, i.e., uncompressed byweight, and when viewed from the side, the pillow top portion 10projects upwardly from the binding 12 (or seam if not covered by thebinding 12), for example at least 2 mm, often 4 mm or more, usually atleast 6 mm and typically within the range of 8 to 20 mm. By“uncompressed by weight” and similar terminology in this context,reference is meant to the slipper arrangement 1 when viewed standingalone, and not with the pillow top portion 3 compressed under a wearer'sfoot. In FIG. 1, this dimension of projection upwardly is indicatedschematically at H. The amount of projection H, is quite often at least10 mm.

In general, when reference is herein to projection of the pillow topportion 10 above the binding 12, when made in reference to a “rest” or“uncompressed by weight” status, reference is meant, for example, to theslipper 1 before being worn; i.e., the slipper 1 as it would appear atthe point of purchase or in a catalog, in appropriate view. The featureof the pillow top portion 10 projecting upwardly from the binding 12 orseam when not covered by the binding 12, provides for the attractiveappearance of a soft, cushioned, slipper. When the slipper arrangement 1is constructed from materials of the type characterized herein, theresult is, in fact, a very soft, cushioned, upper member 3 in a slipper1.

Referring to FIG. 1, it is noted that for the slipper arrangement 1depicted, a portion of the lower pillow top or cover portion 10, is alsoviewable in the heel portion 8, when viewed from the side. This alsoadds to the appearance of the pillow top cushion 3 appearing as adecorative, soft, pillow in slipper arrangement 1.

In a typical slipper arrangement in accord with the present disclosure,for example, slipper 1, and from scale it can be seen that the pillowtop 3, in the hell portion, is viewable projecting upwardly fromadjacent portions of the slipper, and in total, at least 8 mm, atusually at 10 mm, often at least 12 mm and in many instances 15 mm ormore. This dimension is indicated at H2 in FIG. 1.

For the example slipper arrangement 1 depicted in FIG. 1, both thepillow top 3 and the surface of the vamp or cover 4 can be provided witha quilted appearance, as a result of stitching 15 on the upper pillowtop cover 10 and stitching 16 on the vamp or cover 4. Such stitching 15,16 provides for an attractive, ornamental appearance; and, also, thecomforting appearance of a cushioned construction such as a quiltedpillow.

Still referring to FIG. 1, materials for the upper pillow top cover 10,lower pillow top cover 11, and the outer portion of cover or vamp 4 aregenerally chosen, to provide a plush, soft fabric appearance. This isalso referenced below, when materials for construction of the slipper 1are described and exemplified. Also, for the particular slipper 1depicted, bottom or outsole portion 2 is provided with a mud guard coveror wrap 20 therearound, which preferably also has a plush, soft fabricappearance.

Still referring to FIG. 1, it is noted that front and rear edges 4 f, 4r respectively of cover 4 are each provided with an edge binding 25, 26respectively thereon. Material for the edge bindings 25, 26, for atypical example, can also be selected to provide a plush, soft fabricappearance; thus, a fabric material with a plush appearance can be usedfor the pillow binding 12.

Referring to FIG. 1, it is noted that the cover or vamp 4 is fastened inthe slipper 1 such that the pillow top cushion 3 is free within aninterior 4 i of the cover 4. This facilitates comfort, as well as theappearance of a plush, soft, cushioned or pillow top slipperarrangement. By “free” in this context, it is meant that the vamp orcover 4 extends over the top cushion member 3 and is secured to thebottom sole or outsole portion 2.

Attention is now directed to FIG. 2, an opposite side view to that ofFIG. 1. In FIG. 2, seam 30 in mud guard or lower wrap 20 is viewable.The side viewable in FIG. 2 would typically be the inside or arch sideof the slipper 1.

Attention is now directed to FIG. 3, the top view of slipper 1. In FIG.3, arch or inside side 35 and opposite outside 36 are viewable, as wellas toe 7 and heel 8.

From the view of FIG. 3, it can be seen that the example slipper 1depicted is shown with an arch curvature typical of a right slipper. Ofcourse a mate comprising a left slipper would typically be a mirrorimage. In some instances the principles described herein can beimplemented in a slipper configuration which does not include thearcuate inside and outside edges 35, 36, but rather is straight (orrelatively straight) in configuration, and thus is usable by either theleft or the right foot of the wearer.

In FIG. 4 a bottom perspective view of slipper 1 is viewable directedgenerally toward underside 40 and inside 35. For the particular exampleslipper depicted, the bottom side or underside 40 includes a cover 41thereon having a non-skid outer side 42.

In FIG. 5, a top perspective view of slipper 1 is depicted takengenerally toward toe 7, outside 36 and cover or vamp 4.

Referring again to FIG. 1, a side elevational view of the slipperarrangement 1, it is noted that in the heel portion there is no heelwrap or cover which extends around the heel of a wearer, and which wouldcover, from view, portions of the waist 5 and pillow top 3 (when theslipper is not worn).

There is no requirement that a slipper arrangement contain all of thefeatures characterized herein, or not contain all features absent, toobtain some advantage according to the present disclosure.

II. Alternate Slipper Configurations of FIGS. 6-8 A. A Closed ToeVariation, FIG. 6.

Reference numeral 50, FIG. 6, designates an alternate slipperarrangement to arrangement 1. Slipper arrangement 50 comprises a closedtoed variation, for the slipper 1. Referring to FIG. 6, slipper 50 caninclude, for example, the same outsole bottom 2, and the same pillow top3, comprising upper pillow top cover 10, lower pillow top cover 11, andpillow top peripheral binding 12. Further, slipper 50 can include thesame mud guard or bottom wrap 20, with seam 30.

In a closed toe version 50, depicted in FIG. 6, cover 4 is a cover 54,that causes a closing of the toe region or toe 57. The heel 8 on theother hand, can comprise the same heel as shown in FIG. 1. The cover 54can be provided with a quilt stitching, similar to stitching 16, FIG. 1,if desired.

Slipper 50, then, has the same general characteristics of slipper 1,FIGS. 1-5, with respect to the definition of the pillow top 3 comprisinga top cover 10, bottom cover 11 and peripheral seam, in this examplecovered by pillow top peripheral binding 12. It is noted that while afront portion of the pillow top 3 is not viewable in the view of FIG. 6,as it is under the cover of vamp 54. It would generally, in typicalapplications, be the same as pillow top 3, FIG. 1, in extension all theway to the toe region 57.

B. A Thong Version, FIGS. 7 and 8.

At reference 60, FIG. 7, a “thong” or “flip-flop” version of the slipper1 is depicted. Referring to FIG. 7, slipper 60 comprises the sameoutsole bottom 2 with a mud guard or wrap 20 therearound, with seam 30.It also includes a similar cushioned pillow top 3 secured to the bottom2; the cushioned pillow top 3 comprising upper pillow top cover 10,lower pillow top bottom cover 11 and a peripheral seam covered by pillowtop peripheral binding 12. Indeed, the slipper 60 has the same basicheel construction 8 as slipper 1.

In the toe region 67, slipper 60 is completely open. The vamp 4,comprising cover 64 in this instance, is a thong-type cover 64, with acentral forward attachment end 65 and vamp sides 66, 67, only side 66being fully viewable in FIG. 7.

In a top plan view of FIG. 8, slipper 60 is viewable, and centerattachment 65 and vamp sides 66, 67 are viewable.

It is noted that the thong version 60 of the slipper arrangement, ismodified with respect to the top portion 3, from those (1, 50)previously discussed, in that front attachment 65 projects through topportion 3. However, the cushioned appearance of top portion 3 isgenerally as previously discussed and described.

In FIG. 7, slipper 60 is depicted with cover 64 having quilt stitching16 thereon, for an attractive appearance.

III. Assembly of Slipper 1

In FIGS. 9-21, schematic depictions of selected steps during theconstruction of a slipper generally in accord with FIG. 1 are provided.Material pieces to be used in the assembly depicted schematically ofFIGS. 9-21 are depicted in FIGS. 22-29.

Variations from the assembly steps described for the construction ofslipper, FIGS. 1-5, are discussed below, for the construction of slipper50 (FIG. 6) and slipper 60 (FIGS. 7 and 8).

There is no requirement that a slipper be made in accord with thespecific techniques described herein, to obtain some benefit accordingto the present disclosure.

In FIG. 9, a step of pre-forming vamp cover 4, to later be attached intothe slipper 1, is schematically depicted. Cover 4 comprises twocomponents secured to one another along an outer seam. These twocomponents are depicted in FIGS. 22 and 23. In FIG. 22, vamp cover 70 isdepicted and in FIG. 23 the vamp lining 71 is depicted. The vamp cover70 will form an outside of cover 4; and the vamp lining 71, an insidesurface of the cover 4. In FIG. 9, the vamp 70 and vamp lining 71 aredepicted being sewn to one another along a periphery thereof, asindicated at stitching 73. It is noted that in FIG. 9, the bindings 25,26, of FIG. 1, are not yet added. The bindings 25, 26, are added in alater step discussed below.

In FIG. 10 a step of pre-forming the mud guard or lower wrap 2 isdepicted. Mud guard or lower wrap 2 comprises a loop 77 of material 77a. In FIG. 10, seam 30 is shown being formed in the loop 77. In FIG. 10,side 78 will form an inside of the loop 77, when positioned on thefinished slipper 1, and side 79 will form an outside viewable to theobserver of the slipper 1, FIG. 1. Thus, side 79 is generally a plush,attractive side, whereas side 78 may include a lining or otherstructural material.

In FIG. 11, a subcomponent 84 sometimes referred to herein as a “pillowbase” is shown being formed. The “pillow base” of FIG. 1, comprises twocomponents secured to one another by stitching 85. The stitching 85 isgenerally positioned inwardly from the edge of the two components, toform a five-eighth's inch (⅝″ or 15.9 mm) wide seam 86. The twocomponents depicted in FIG. 11 being stitched together, comprise a lowerpillow top (bottom) cover 88, FIG. 24 and an upper outsole cover 89 ofFIG. 25.

Referring to FIG. 24, the lower pillow top cover 88 has an outerperiphery 91 and a central slit 92. The central slit 92 extendscompletely through the lower pillow top cover 88 and is aligned, for theexample shown, with a direction between toe portion 93 and heel portion94. The slit 92 is typically at least 80 mm long, usually 90 to 150 mmlong. Typically the slit 92 extends, centrally, along 40-60% of a lengthof the piece 88.

It is noted that the outer periphery 91 includes a plurality of spacedindexing notches 96 therein, to facilitate assembly.

Pattern piece 88 will, in the finished slipper 1, form lower (bottom)pillow top cover 11 of the pillow top cushion member 3.

Referring to FIG. 25, the upper outsole cover 89 also includes an outerperiphery 99, a central slit 100, and spaced indexing notches 99 a. Thecentral slit 100, in the example shown, is aligned in a directionbetween toe portion 101, and heel portion 102. The slit 100 is typicallyat least 80 mm long and usually within the range of 90 to 150 mm long.It is preferably the same length as slit 92. Thus, it is usually 40-60%of a length of the piece 89. Piece 88 is generally the same size andshape as piece 89.

Pattern piece 89 will generally form upper cover 21, FIG. 1, of thecushioned outsole bottom 2, FIG. 1. Pattern pieces 88, 89 are generallyselected to be of the same size and shape, and be such that when pieces88 and 89 are positioned overlapping one another, slit 92 overlaps slit100.

In FIG. 11, one can see pillow base 84 being formed from lower pillowtop cover 88 and outsole top 89; the two being secured together bystitching 85. The stitching depicted in FIG. 11 is such as to alignslits 92 and 100 with one another, to form a single slit 109 through thepillow base 84, of FIG. 11.

In FIG. 12, a further step of assembly is depicted, in which pillow base84 formed in FIG. 11, is shown being secured to upper pillow top cover110, by stitching. The upper pillow top cover 110 used is depicted inFIG. 26. Referring to FIG. 26, upper pillow top cover 110 includes anouter periphery 111 with indexing notches 112 herein. Upper pillow topcover 110 includes toe portion 113, and opposite heel portion 114. Theupper pillow top cover 110 is shown being secured to the pillow base 84of FIG. 12, by appropriate stitching 116. It is noted that pillow topcover piece 110 will form upper cover 10, FIG. 1, and includes quiltpattern stitching 15, for an attractive appearance.

The net result of FIG. 12, is the formation of a pillow member 120,FIGS. 12 and 13. An open central volume 121, FIG. 13, is accessible froman exterior, through slit 109; slit 109 comprising slits 92 and 100together.

In FIG. 13, pillow member 120 is viewable in a perspective view.Internal volume 121 is viewable through slit 109. In FIG. 13, the layersthat will form upper pillow top cover 10 and lower pillow top cover 11are viewable.

In FIG. 14, the step of providing a peripheral, pillow, binding 12 onpillow member 120 (to form pillow top cushion 3) is depicted. Binding12, formed from a strip 124 sewn around a periphery of pillow member120, is depicted along and covering (closing) a seam 124 x, FIG. 12,between upper pillow top cover 110 (10, FIG. 1) and lower pillow topcover 88 (11, FIG. 1).

In FIG. 15, vamp 4 is depicted being completed by applying bindings 25,26 thereto, from a strip 126 of binding material. Bindings 25, 26 areformed by securing strip 126 over a seam along opposite edges, betweenvamp cover 70 and vamp lining 71.

In FIG. 16, slipper upper section 130 is depicted, comprising vamp 4secured to upper outsole cover 89. Referring to FIG. 16, a completedvamp for cover 4 is sewn directly to the upper outsole cover 89. In oneregion, indicated at 89 x, along one of the sides of the vamp 4, a gapis left in the stitching between the vamp 4 and outsole cover 89. Afunction of gap 89 x is to allow for an inversion of a portion of apartial slipper assembly discussed below, through the opening of gap 89x.

Again, the mid-assembly (intermediate) structure 130 indicated in FIG.16 will generally be referred to herein as the slipper upper section130, comprising top cushion member 3 (minus an internal cushion),outsole cover 89 and vamp 4.

In FIG. 17, mud guard wrap 20 is shown being stitched to slipper uppersection 130 around a periphery thereof. Stitching is directly betweenthe wrap 20 and the upper outsole cover piece 89. It can be seen thatthe stitching is along a portion of the wrap 20 which will form aninside, in the completed slipper 1.

The construction 135 resulting from FIG. 17 will sometimes be referredto herein as the slipper upper section 130/wrap 20 combination 135 or bysimilar terms.

In FIG. 18, the pillow top cushion 140 is shown being inserted intointerior volume 121 of pillow member 120, in combination 135. Pillow topcushion 140 is depicted in FIG. 27, and has an outer periphery 141 witha toe portion 142 and a heel portion 143.

In FIG. 19, an assembly 146 comprising slipper upper section/wrapcombination 135 with pillow top cushion 140 inserted therein, isdepicted, stitched close at stitching 147 along slit 109.

In FIG. 20, a lower outsole cover 150 is shown being stitched to the mudguard or side wrap 20. This creates a closed outsole bottom cover. Theoutsole bottom 150 is depicted in FIG. 28 having an outer periphery 151with indexing notches 152 therein. It includes toe portion 153 and heelportion 154. As discussed below, for the example shown, a side of theoutsole or slipper bottom 150, which will form a slipper bottom 40, FIG.4 typically includes non-stick material thereon.

Referring to FIG. 20, the resulting component 160 from the stitching ofthe outsole 150 to assembly 146 may be referred to herein as the“inverted slipper minus sole filler” 160.

In final steps of manufacture, the following occur. First, assembly 160of FIG. 20 is inverted through aperture 89 x, FIG. 10. This willgenerate the appearance of FIG. 21. Next, the outsole cushion 170, FIG.29, is inserted through the aperture 89 x, FIG. 21. Referring to FIG.29, outsole cushion 170 has an outer perimeter 171 defining toe portion172 and a heel portion 173. After cushion 170 is inserted throughaperture 89 x, aperture 89 x is sewn closed, and the slipper is turnedinside out with respect to passage of the vamp 4 over toe 7, FIG. 21.This will result in slipper assembly 1, FIG. 1.

IV. Processing Variations to Form Slippers 50, 60

Closed toe variation 50, FIG. 6, can be made in the same manner asslipper 1. Whether open or closed toe, the vamp 4, 54 will invert overthe toe 7, as discussed in the final steps in preparation of slipper 1.

Slipper 60 of FIGS. 7 and 8, thong version, is constructed analogously.However, there are some modifications in assembly steps, which can beunderstood by reference to FIGS. 30-32, as follows.

In FIG. 30, a modified vamp piece 180 usable to form cover 64, FIG. 7,is depicted. The vamp piece 180 includes sides 181, 182, toe section 183and extensions 184, 185 forwardly from toes section 183.

Referring to FIG. 31, during a step of assembly with vamp piece 180secured in place by the sides 181, 182, with extensions 184, 185 extendforwardly. Referring to FIG. 32, an aperture 190 is provided throughcover 10, cover 11, cover 21 and foam insert 140. In FIG. 32, mud guard20 is viewable. It is noted that aperture 89 x, for the thong version,is left out of the side, but rather an analogous aperture is in the heelregion at 290 x. This aperture 290 x is used for the inversion and theoutsole cushion insertion steps of in forming slipper 60.

V. Example Materials

A variety of materials can be utilized for slippers in accord with thedescriptions herein. Example materials useable to form an attractiveplush appearance slipper depicted for slipper 1 are described in thissection.

For the vamp cover 70, a fabric construction comprising a three-layerlaminate is usable. An example comprises a 2 mm quilted microfiberterry/⅛ inch (or 3.2 mm) polytricot/and Pellon laminate. The Pellon willform the inside of the vamp, against the vamp lining.

The vamp lining 71, which is not quilted, can also comprise a fabriclaminate. An example comprises a 2 mm microfiber terry/⅛ inch (or 3.2mm) polytricot/Pellon combination.

For the mud guard or bottom wrap 20, the loop 77 is typically formed ofa fabric laminate strip. A usable example comprises 2 mm microfiberterry/⅛ inch (or 3.2 mm) polytricot.

The lower pillow top cover 88 (11) comprises a fabric laminate. Anexample is 2 mm microfiber terry/⅛ inch (or 3.2 mm) polytricot. Theupper outsole cover 89 (21) typically comprises a fabric laminate. A 2mm microfiber terry/⅛ inch (or 3.2 mm) polytricot laminate is usablecombination.

For the upper pillow top cover 110, which will form the attractive uppersurface 10 of the resulting pillow top 3, FIG. 1, a fabric laminate isalso usable. A usable material, for an example, is a quilted 2 mm microterry/⅛ inch (or 3.2 mm) polytricot laminate.

A lower outsole cover 115 can comprise a variety of materials selectedfor the bottom surface 40 of slipper 1. An example variation comprisesfabrics such as a cotton or polyester cloth, provided with a non-skiddot print pattern (tpr or tpu) or other pattern, on a surface thereof,which will provide the bottom most surface or under surface 40 of theslipper 1. Alternatively, a leather or suede material can be used forthe cover 115. Typically, a flexible material will be chosen. If aflexible, but relatively robust, outsole is desired, a TPR(thermoplastic rubber) can be used.

The foam inserts will be selected for desirable cushion and memorycharacteristics. For the pillow top 3, an example of usable foam wouldcomprise a laminate, for example, a Pellon/⅜ inch (or 9.5 mm) viscoelastic foam/Pellon laminate.

A filler for the outsole will typically be more rigorous material, forexample ⅜ inch (or 9.5 mm) high-density polyester foam.

Fabric materials can typically be chosen for the bindings. A useablematerial is a 2 mm microfiber terry.

The various fabric and foam material used are generally selected as amatter of choice, for the desired appearance and feel of the slipper.Materials of the type characterized herein, and minor variations fromthem, can be obtained from commercial suppliers.

It is noted that as characterized, the slipper 1 comprises flexiblefabric components, configured to form two internal sub-chambers, each ofwhich is filled with a foam cushion material. It is noted that in someinstances, the outsole bottom can be a more rigorous component, forexample a molded polymeric component.

VI. An Additional Example Embodiment, FIG. 33-42

The reference numeral 401, FIG. 33, generally indicates an alternateslipper arrangement according to the present disclosure. The view ofFIG. 33 is a schematic heel end, top perspective, view.

Referring to FIG. 33, slipper 401 generally comprises: a slipper base402 comprising bottom lower cover or outsole portion 402 x; an upperpillow top cushion portion 403; and, a cover 404. (The base 402 alsoincludes an upper cover, not viewable in FIG. 33). The cover 404 extendsover a portion of a wearer's foot, more specifically a front portion ofthe wearer's foot. The particular example depicted, is of a “closed toe”slipper, 401. However, the principles of FIG. 33 could be utilized in athong style slipper or a open-toe slipper.

Herein, the cover 404 will sometimes be characterized as a “vamp”,comprising an outer cover 404 x and lining 404 y.

The toe of the slipper 401 is indicated generally at 407. The slipper401 is of a type characterized herein as having a “open” heel portion408.

As with the previous embodiments, the example slipper 401 comprises two,isolated, cushion members secured to one another. The two, isolated,cushion members comprise base portion 402; and, the upper pillow top(cushion portion) 403. In the particular example shown, the base 402 andpillow top portion 403 comprise members stitched to one another.

In the particular slipper 401, FIG. 33, the cover portion or vamp 404includes, secured thereto, a heel band 413. While in the example shown,the heel band 413 is not secured directly to the pillow top 403, it canpartially or completely obscure a viewing of a narrow waist underneaththe pillow top 403; i.e. a waist between the pillow top 403 and theslipper base 402. (The example heel band 413 is sufficiently small tonot extend upwardly along a significant portion of a wearer's heel).

As will be understood from further descriptions, except for: (a) thepresence of heel band 413; (b) utilization of optional button tacking inthe pillow top of upper portion 403; (c) the absence of a binding over aperipheral seam in the pillow top 403; and, (d) the specific use of aTPR rubber for the outsole 402, slipper 401 generally includes featuresanalogous to those previously depicted.

In the example slipper 401 shown, the upper pillow top cushion portion403 comprises: an upper pillow top cover 410, a lower pillow top bottomor lower cover portion 411, and a peripheral pillow top seam 412 betweencover 410 and cover 411 securing the two together. It is noted that forthe example slipper 401 depicted, seam 412 is not covered by a binding.Together, the upper pillow top portion 410 and lower pillow bottomportion 411 define a pillow top cover 403 x containing an internallypositioned pillow top cushion member, such as a foam cushion.

As with previously described embodiments, a characteristic of slipper401 is an upper cushion pillow top 403 secured to a cushion-containingslipper base 402. The upper, cushioned, pillow top 403, when the slipper401 is not worn (and when viewed from the side), generally provides (atleast in a heel portion 408 of the slipper 401), for viewing of thepillow top cover 410 projecting above the seam 412 (although the seam412 may be configured to be nearly invisible in the final slipper unlessclosely examined). This provides for view of pillow top 403 that issimilar to a side view of a throw pillow or a similar cushion.

As with the previous embodiments, in a slipper “rest” state, the pillowtop portion 410 typically projects upwardly from the seam 412 at least 2millimeters, often 4 millimeters or more, typically, at its highest, atleast 6 millimeters; and, in some applications of techniques describedherein, 10 mm or more.

As with previous embodiment, in a slipper “rest” state, the pillow topcushion 403 is generally viewable projecting upwardly from adjacentportions of the slipper, at least 8 mm, and typically at least 10 mm,often at least 12 mm; and, in some instances, 15 mm or more. In thisinstance (FIG. 33, slipper 401) the projection would be the portionviewable above heel band 413.

As with previous embodiments, for the embodiment of FIG. 33, portions ofthe vamp or cover 404, and portions of the upper pillow top 403, can beprovided with a quilted stitching. However, the particular exampleembodiment of slipper 401, FIG. 33, is depicted with no quilt patterndepicted on the cover 404 or on the upper pillow top or cover portion410. Slipper 401 does have an optional button tacking pattern in aportion of the pillow top 403 not covered by cover 404, as indicated at450.

It is noted that when an optional button tacking pattern 450 is used,the rise of the pillow top cover 410 above seam 412 will be truncatedsomewhat. However, a rise of at least 2 mm, usually at least 4 mm ormore; and, in some instances at least 6 mm, will still, typically, bepresent. Further, even with a button tacking 450, typically the pillowtop 403 will be viewable projecting upwardly from adjacent portions ofthe slipper 401, at least 8 mm, typically at least 10 mm, usually atleast 12 mm, often at least 15 mm or more. (Of course, if the optionalbutton tacking pattern, 450 is not used, in some instances pillow topcover 410 will project above seam 412 at least 10 mm or more).

It is noted that the materials for the upper pillow top cover 410, lowerpillow top cover 411, and the outer portion 404 x of the cover or vamp404 can be chosen to provide a plush, soft, fabric appearance.

For the particular example arrangement depicted, the outsole portion 402x of slipper base 402 comprises a TPR (thermoplastic rubber) molded toform (together) the bottom or sole 402 b, and outer rim 402 r. Within aninterior volume defined by bottom 402 b and rim 402 r, is typicallyprovided a second foam cushion member, for providing cushion to thepillow bottom 402. The foam insert, and thus the interior volumeidentified, will typically be covered by a base upper cover, such as afabric member, not viewable in FIG. 33; but secured at stitching 409.Typically, the base upper cover is fabric.

The heel wrap 413, and cover 404, will typically be secured to the baseupper cover.

In FIGS. 33-39, a right foot slipper is depicted. Of course the leftfoot mating member to slipper 401, could be formed, in general as amirror image.

In FIG. 34, a side elevational view of slipper 401 is depicted. In FIG.34, the view is directed toward the right, or outside 460. In FIG. 34,seam 412, is viewable, with pillow top portion 410 billowing upwardly,and with a portion of pillow top bottom portion 411 viewable directeddownwardly. Again, a waist between pillow top 403 and pillow bottom 402,analogous to waist 5 FIG. 1, is present, but is not viewable due to theheel wrap 413. (The waist will typically be viewable, without damage tothe slipper 401, by manipulating the slipper 401 to separate, slightly,pillow top 403 and heel band 413).

In FIG. 35, a side elevational view of slipper 401 is provided, directedtoward the inside or arch side 461.

In FIG. 36 a top plan view of slipper 401 is provided.

In FIG. 37 a bottom plan view of slipper 401 is provided. It is notedthat the bottom surface 402 b can be provided with a variety of treadpatterns. In addition, alternate materials from TPR can be used for theoutsole bottom 402.

In FIG. 38, a toe end elevational view of slipper 401 is provided.

In FIG. 39 a heel end elevational view of the slipper 401 is provided.

FIGS. 40-42, provide for a general understanding of an approach tomanufacture of slipper 401. In FIG. 40, a component 470 is depicted,comprising vamp 404 with heel band 413 secured thereto. The vamp 404generally comprises an outer cover 404 x and lining 404 y. The component470 would generally be formed as part of the operation of making slipper401.

In FIG. 41 the pillow top upper cover portion 410 and pillow top lowercover portion 411 are shown secured to one another around seam 412, andthe pillow base upper cover 465 is viewable secured thereto at waist466. A pillow top cushion member 481 is shown being inserted into thepillow top 403.

In FIG. 42, a slipper component 468 is shown resulting from thestructure of FIG. 41, after complete cushion insertion; note theoptional button tacking 450.

In the next step of manufacture, the pillow top cover/heel wrapcombination, 470, FIG. 40, can be secured to component 468, FIG. 42, bystitching to the bottom cover 465, leaving the pillow top cushion 403positioned freely therein. The resulting combination can then bestitched to a outsole bottom 402 x, with stitching between the pillowbase upper cover 465 and the outsole 402 x, as shown at 409, FIG. 33.Typically, a pillow bottom cushion will be positioned within the outsole402 before stitching. This will provide for two spaced (isolate) cushionmembers. In some instances, stitching 409 will be through: the outsidebutton 402 x, member 470 and upper cover 405.

It is noted that in the slipper 401, the rise of the pillow top 403 isfree, i.e. the vamp 404 is shown extending over the pillow top 403,allowing the pillow top 403 to rise therein, and be separate therefrom.

It is also noted that, (although normally the waist 466, FIG. 41,between the pillow top 403 and the pillow bottom 402 is not viewable inthe slipper rest state, due to the heel band 413, in the final slipper401, FIG. 33), because in the example, the heel band 413 is secured tothe slipper base upper cover 465, and not the pillow top 403, inexamining the slipper 401, after completion, a person can spread apartpillow top 403 and heel wrap 413, sufficiently to view the waist withoutdamage to slipper 401.

VII. Conclusions

According to the present disclosure, a slipper footwear arrangement isprovided. The arrangement can comprise a slipper base, typicallyincluding: a lower outsole cover; an upper outsole cover; and a cushioninsert between the lower outsole cover and the upper outsole cover. Theexample slipper footwear arrangement typically comprises a slipper baseor bottom which defines an internal pocket, that receives a cushioninsert during assembly.

The slipper footwear arrangement includes a pillow top positioned on,and secured to, a slipper base or bottom. The pillow top is typicallynon-removably secured to the slipper base, for example, with stitching.The pillow top comprises a pillow cover, for example comprising an upperpillow top cover; a lower pillow top cover; and, a cushion insertbetween the upper pillow top cover and the lower pillow top cover.Alternately phrased, an upper pillow top cover and a lower pillow topcover define an interior region of a cover, into which a pillow topcushion can be received. Such a pillow top is secured, typically withstitching, to a slipper base.

Typically, the pillow top includes a peripheral side seam between theupper pillow top cover and the lower pillow top cover. The side seam canbe covered, with a peripheral binding.

The typical slipper arrangement includes a narrowed “waist” section,defined where a pillow top is secured to the slipper outsole. In someinstances, the narrow waist section is viewable, at least in the heelsection, when slipper is not worn. In one example, the narrowed waist isnot viewable in the slipper rest state, as it is behind a heel band,unless the heel wrap and pillow top are spread apart slightly.

In typical arrangements according to the present disclosure, the pillowtop projects above the peripheral pillow side seam, (and binding whenpresent), a distance of at least 2 mm, typically at least 4 mm, often atleast 6 mm. In an example, this distance is within the range of 8-20 mmand is usually more than 10 mm. The projection characterized, is meantto be in reference to the slipper before weight is applied to the pillowtop. The projection characterized is viewable at least in the heelsection, when the slipper is not worn.

Typical slipper arrangements according to the present disclosure have an“open heel” assembly. That is, there is no side projection which extendsabove, and around, a portion of a wearer's heel. Even in the embodimentof FIG. 33, the heel band 413 typically does not extend up enough tosubstantially cover any portion of a wearer's heel. Thus, the wrap 413,for example, does not extend above seam 412, in the typical, completed,rest state, slipper.

In a typical slipper arrangement, the pillow top is viewable, in theheel portion, when the slipper is in a rest state, projecting upwardlyup at least 8 mm, typically at least 10 mm often at least 12 mm and inmany instances 15 mm or more, from adjacent portions of the slipper.

Certain slipper arrangements according to the present inventiongenerally have a heel section in which the pillow top and a narrowedwaist section are viewable (i.e., there is no projection which extendsover the portions of the slipper arrangement), when the slipper is notworn. When a heel band is present, as in slipper 401, the waist may notbe viewable without manipulation to separate heel wrap 413 and pillowtop 403.

Variations of slipper footwear arrangements are described, in which anopen toe, closed toe, and thong arrangement result.

An example of slipper footwear arrangement is described herein, in whichthe slipper base includes a plush fabric mud guard therearound.

In an example arrangement depicted, the upper pillow top cover isprovided with a quilt stitching pattern thereon, for an attractiveappearance. Further foot covers (i.e., vamps) can be provided with aquilt stitching pattern thereon as well, for attractive appearance.

As shown in FIG. 1, in a typical slipper arrangement 1, a portion of thelower pillow top cover is exposed below the seam between the upperpillow top cover and the lower pillow top cover; i.e., below the binding12. The amount of exposure is typically a distance of at least 1 mm, andin some instances more.

As described herein, a lower outsole cover, which forms the bottom ofthe slipper arrangement in use, can be fabric, for example, a fabrichaving a non-skid print on a bottom surface thereof. However, alternatesare possible, and a TRP example is described.

Techniques usable to form slipper footwear arrangements as describedherein, are provided.

There is no requirement that a slipper arrangement include all of thedetail features described herein, or be made with all of the assemblysteps described, to obtain some benefit of the present disclosure.

1. A slipper footwear arrangement comprising: (a) a slipper base; (b) apillow top positioned on, and secured to, the slipper base; the pillowtop comprising: an upper pillow top cover; a lower pillow top cover;and, a cushion insert between the upper pillow top cover and the lowerpillow top cover; (i) the pillow top including a peripheral side seambetween the upper pillow top cover and the lower pillow top cover; and,(ii) the pillow top being viewable projecting above the peripheralpillow side seam a distance of at least 4 mm; and, (c) a foot coverextending over a portion of the pillow top.
 2. A slipper footweararrangement according to claim 1 wherein: (a) the slipper base includesa lower outsole cover; an upper outsole cover; and, a cushion insertbetween the lower outsole cover and the upper outsole cover.
 3. Aslipper footwear arrangement according to claim 1 wherein: (a) the footcover is an open-toed vamp.
 4. A slipper footwear arrangement accordingto claim 1 wherein: (a) the foot cover is a closed-toed vamp.
 5. Aslipper footwear arrangement according to claim 1 wherein: (a) the footcover is a thong vamp.
 6. A slipper footwear arrangement according toclaim 1 wherein: (a) the pillow top projects above the peripheral pillowside seam a distance of at least 6 mm.
 7. A slipper footwear arrangementaccording to claim 1 wherein: (a) the lower pillow top cover has anexposed periphery that extends downwardly from the peripheral pillowside seam a distance of at least 1 mm.
 8. A slipper footwear arrangementaccording to claim 1 wherein: (a) in a heel portion of the slipper, thepillow top is viewable, in a rest state, projecting upwardly a distanceof at least 8 mm.
 9. A slipper footwear arrangement according to claim 1including: (a) a viewable narrowed peripheral waist between portions ofthe pillow top and the slipper base.
 10. A slipper footwear arrangementaccording to claim 1 wherein: (a) the pillow top projects above theperipheral pillow side seam a distance of at least 10 mm.
 11. A slipperfootwear arrangement according to claim 1 wherein: (a) the peripheralpillow side seam is covered by a binding.
 12. A slipper footweararrangement according to claim 1 wherein: (a) the upper pillow top coverhas a quilted stitching pattern thereon.
 13. A slipper footweararrangement according to claim 1 wherein: (a) the foot cover includes aquilted stitching pattern thereon.
 14. A slipper footwear arrangementaccording to claim 1 wherein: (a) the slipper base includes a plushfabric mud guard therearound.
 15. A slipper footwear arrangementaccording to claim 1 wherein: (a) the lower outsole cover is fabric. 16.A slipper footwear arrangement according to claim 15 wherein: (a) thebottom outside cover has a non-skid print on a bottom surface thereof.17. A slipper footwear arrangement according to claim 1 including: (a) aheel band secured to the slipper base.
 18. A slipper footweararrangement according to claim 1 wherein: (a) the lower outsole cover:is a molded outsole with a base and a side; and, includes a cushionpositioned therein,
 19. A slipper footwear arrangement comprising: (a) aslipper base having a cushion therein; (b) a pillow top positioned on,and secured to, the slipper base; the pillow top comprising a cover anda cushion member; (i) the slipper footwear arrangement having a viewablenarrowed peripheral waist between portions of the pillow top and theslipper base; and, (c) a foot cover extending over a portion of thepillow top.
 20. A slipper footwear arrangement according to claim 19wherein: (a) the pillow top comprises: an upper pillow top cover; and, alower pillow top cover; (i) the upper pillow top cover being secured tothe lower pillow top cover along a peripheral seam.
 21. A slipperfootwear arrangement according to claim 20 wherein: (a) the slipper baseincludes a lower outsole cover and an upper outsole cover with anoutsole cushion therebetween.
 22. A slipper footwear arrangementaccording to claim 21 wherein: (a) the slipper base includes aperipheral mud guard secured between the upper and lower outsole covers.